U.S. patent application number 10/440625 was filed with the patent office on 2004-11-25 for flexible mixing bag for mixing solids, liquids and gases.
Invention is credited to Zambaux, Jean-Pascal.
Application Number | 20040233779 10/440625 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33449824 |
Filed Date | 2004-11-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040233779 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zambaux, Jean-Pascal |
November 25, 2004 |
Flexible mixing bag for mixing solids, liquids and gases
Abstract
In an embodiment, an apparatus includes a conduit. The apparatus
also includes two or more flexible compartments. Each of the two or
more flexible compartments has an interior wall defining a storage
area configured to house a substance. Each of the two or more
flexible compartments includes a distal end and a proximal end. The
proximal ends of the two or more flexible compartments are coupled
to the conduit such that the conduit defines a passageway between
the two or more flexible compartments. A diameter of the storage
area at the proximal end is less than a diameter of the storage
area at the distal end.
Inventors: |
Zambaux, Jean-Pascal; (Riom,
FR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ATMI, INC.
7 COMMERCE DRIVE
DANBURY
CT
06810
US
|
Family ID: |
33449824 |
Appl. No.: |
10/440625 |
Filed: |
May 19, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
366/214 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01F 35/514 20220101;
B01F 35/7133 20220101; B01F 35/713 20220101; B01F 35/513 20220101;
B01F 31/10 20220101 |
Class at
Publication: |
366/214 |
International
Class: |
B01F 011/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus comprising: a conduit; and two or more flexible
compartments, wherein each of the two or more flexible compartments
has an interior wall defining a storage area configured to house a
substance, wherein each of the two or more flexible compartments
comprises a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal ends of the
two or more flexible compartments coupled to the conduit such that
the conduit defines a passageway between the two or more flexible
compartments, wherein a diameter of the storage area at the
proximal end is less than a diameter of the storage area at the
distal end.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the conduit and the two or
more flexible compartments are a part of a single film.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is configured to
be rotated at least one rotation, the at least one rotation to
include at least 1/N of a turn, wherein N is a number of flexible
compartments in the apparatus.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is to be
discarded after a single use.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a first of the two or more
flexible compartments includes an inlet opening to load a first
substance in the first flexible compartment.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the first substance comprises
a solid.
7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the first substance comprises
a liquid.
8. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the first substance comprises
a gas.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the conduit is a two-part
connector.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the conduit is a junction
element.
11. An apparatus comprising: a first flexible compartment having an
interior wall defining a first storage area to hold a first
substance; a second flexible compartment having an interior wall
defining a second storage area to hold a second substance; a third
flexible compartment having an interior wall defining a third
storage area to hold a third substance; and a junction element
coupled between the first flexible compartment, the second flexible
compartment and the third flexible compartment, wherein a passage
of the junction element to the third flexible compartment is to be
closed for at least a partial time when the first substance and the
second substance are to at least partially mix through the junction
element during rotation of the apparatus.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first flexible
compartment comprises a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal
end of the first flexible compartment coupled to the junction
element, wherein a diameter of the first storage area at the
proximal end is less than a diameter of the first storage area at
the distal end.
13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the second flexible
compartment comprises a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal
end of the second flexible compartment coupled to the junction
element, wherein a diameter of the second storage area at the
proximal end is less than a diameter of the second storage area at
the distal end.
14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the third flexible
compartment comprises a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal
end of the third flexible compartment coupled to the junction
element, wherein a diameter of the second storage area at the
proximal end is less than a diameter of the third storage area at
the distal end.
15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first flexible
compartment includes an inlet opening to load the first substance
in the first flexible compartment.
16. A system comprising: a single-use flexible mixing apparatus
comprising a conduit, a first flexible compartment and a second
flexible compartment, wherein the first flexible compartment has an
interior wall defining a first storage area to hold a first
substance, the first flexible compartment having a distal end and a
proximal end, the proximal end of the first flexible compartment
coupled to the conduit, wherein a width of the first storage area
is smallest at the proximal end, wherein the second flexible
compartment has an interior wall defining a second storage area to
hold a second substance, the second flexible compartment having a
distal end and a proximal end, the proximal end of the second
flexible compartment coupled to the conduit, wherein a width of the
second storage area is smallest at the proximal end; and a mixing
support to support the single-use flexible mixing apparatus.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein the mixing support is to
position the single-use flexible mixing apparatus vertically during
rotation of the single-use flexible mixing apparatus approximately
centered around the conduit.
18. The system of claim 16, wherein the mixing support comprises a
first sleeve to cover the first compartment and a second sleeve to
cover the second compartment.
19. The system of claim 16, wherein the mixing support is selected
from a clip, a clamp and a sleeve.
20. The system of claim 16 further comprising a control apparatus
coupled to the mixing support to control the rotation of the
single-use flexible mixing apparatus through execution of
machine-readable instructions.
21. The system of claim 20, wherein the machine-readable
instructions, when executed, are to cause the mixing support to
rotate at least one rotation, the at least one rotation to include
at least 1/N of a turn, wherein N is a number of flexible
compartments in the single-use flexible mixing apparatus.
22. A method comprising: mixing the two or more substances based on
rotation of a single-use flexible mixing device, wherein the
single-use flexible mixing device comprises a conduit and two or
more flexible compartments, wherein each of the two or more
flexible compartments has an interior wall defining a storage area
configured to house a substance, wherein each of the two or more
flexible compartments comprises a distal end and a proximal end,
the proximal ends of the two or more flexible compartments coupled
to the conduit such that the conduit defines a passageway between
the two or more flexible compartments, wherein a diameter of the
storage area at the proximal end is less than a diameter of the
storage area at the distal end.
23. The method of claim 22 further comprising loading the two or
more substances into at least one of the two or more flexible
compartments.
24. The method of claim 22, wherein mixing the two or more
substances based on rotation of the single-use flexible mixing
device comprises mixing the two or more substances based on
rotation of the single-use flexible mixing device in an
approximately vertical plane.
25. The method of claim 22 further comprising draining a result of
the mixing of the two or more substances from an opening in one of
the two or more flexible compartments.
26. The method of claim 22 further comprising closing a passage
between a first of two or more flexible compartments and the
conduit prior to mixing the two or more substances from the other
flexible compartments.
27. The method of claim 26 further comprising opening the passage
between the first flexible compartment and the conduit subsequent
to mixing the two or more substances from the other flexible
compartments.
28. The method of claim 27 further comprising mixing a substance of
the two or more substances in the first flexible compartment with
the mixture of the two or more substances from the other flexible
compartments.
29. The method of claim 22, wherein mixing the two or more
substances based on rotation of the single-use flexible mixing
device comprises rotating the single-use flexible mixing device a
number of rotations, wherein a rotation of the number of rotations
includes rotating at least 1/N of a turn, wherein N is a number of
the two or more flexible compartments in the single-use flexible
mixing device.
30. The method of claim 22 further comprising discarding the
single-use flexible mixing device.
31. The method of claim 22, wherein mixing the two or more
substances based on rotation of the single-use flexible mixing
device comprises mixing a solid with a liquid based on rotation of
the single-use flexible mixing device.
32. The method of claim 22, wherein mixing the two or more
substances based on rotation of the single-use flexible mixing
device comprises mixing a first liquid with a second liquid based
on rotation of the single-use flexible mixing device.
33. A method comprising: loading a number of different substances
into a number of separate compartments of a single-use flexible
mixing device through separate inlets for the number of different
substances; and mixing the number of different substances through a
single connection that couples the number of separate compartments
together based on rotation on the single-use flexible mixing
device.
34. The method of claim 33, wherein mixing the number of different
substances through the single connection comprises mixing the
number of different substances through the single connection in an
approximately vertical plane.
35. The method of claim 33 comprising closing a passage between one
of the number of separate compartments and the single connection
prior to mixing the number of different substances from the other
compartments of the number of separate compartments.
36. The method of claim 33, wherein mixing the number of different
substances through the single connection comprises rotating the
single-use flexible mixing device a number of rotations, wherein a
rotation of the number of rotations includes rotating at least 1/N
of a turn, wherein N is a number of separate compartments in the
single-use flexible mixing device.
37. A method comprising: closing passages between a first
compartment, a second compartment and a third compartment of a
single-use flexible mixing apparatus at a connection that connects
the first compartment, the second compartment and the third
compartment; loading a first substance in the first compartment
through a first inlet in the first compartment; loading a second
substance in the second compartment through a second inlet in the
second compartment; loading a third substance in the third
compartment through a third inlet in the third compartment; opening
the opening for the first compartment and the opening for the
second compartment; mixing the first substance in the first
compartment with the second substance in the second compartment
based on rotation of the single-use flexible mixing apparatus;
opening the opening for the third compartment; mixing the third
substance in the third compartment with the mixture of the first
substance and the second substances based on rotation of the
single-use flexible mixing apparatus; draining a result of the
mixing the third substance in the third compartment with the
mixture of the first substance and the second substances from an
outlet opening in the first compartment; and discarding the
single-use flexible mixing apparatus.
38. The method of claim 37, wherein mixing the first substance in
the first compartment with the second substance in the second
compartment comprises mixing the first substance in the first
compartment with the second substance in the second compartment in
an approximately vertical plane.
39. The method of claim 37, wherein mixing the third substance in
the third compartment with the mixture of the first substance and
the second substances comprises mixing the third substance in the
third compartment with the mixture of the first substance and the
second substances in an approximately vertical plane.
40. A kit comprising: a flexible mixing device comprising a conduit
and two or more flexible compartments, wherein each of the two or
more flexible compartments has an interior wall defining a storage
area configured to house a substance, wherein each of the two or
more flexible compartments comprises a distal end and a proximal
end, the proximal ends of the two or more flexible compartments
coupled to the conduit such that the conduit defines a passageway
between the two or more flexible compartments, wherein a diameter
of the storage area at the proximal end is less than a diameter of
the storage area at the distal end; packaging material; and
instructions or indicia located on the packaging material or inside
the packaging material.
41. The kit of claim 40 further comprising two or more substances
independently located in the two or more flexible compartments.
42. The kit of claim 40, wherein the conduit and the two or more
flexible compartments are a part of a single film.
43. The kit of claim 40, wherein a first of the two or more
flexible compartments includes an inlet opening to load a first
substance in the first flexible compartment.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This invention generally relates to mixing of substances and
more particularly to a flexible mixing bag for mixing of solids,
liquids, gases and combinations thereof.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The mixing of substances, such as different types of solids,
liquids and/or gases has a number of applications in different
industries. For example, in the pharmaceutical industry, different
types of drugs are mixed together. In the medical field, body
fluids (such as blood) and/or drugs are typical substances that are
mixed. The agricultural industry also incorporates mixing
operations into a number of applications. For example, water is
mixed with dehydrated food for the rehydration of such food.
[0003] However, in these and other industries, the substances that
are mixed may be hazardous, dangerous and/or infectious. For
example, in the pharmaceutical and/or medical industries, the
substances that are to be mixed may be toxic. Additionally, in a
number of situations, the handling of powders may be dangerous
because of the possibilities of inhalation of such powders.
Furthermore, in the medical field, individuals that handle body
fluids, such as fluids that are HIV-infected, do so without
attempting direct contact of these fluids.
[0004] Conventional mixing devices generally involve a glass tank
for substances that are of small volumes and a stainless steel tank
for substances of larger volumes. These tanks often include a screw
to agitate and maintain powders within suspension. Such screws are
also used to homogenize multiphase solutions. Prior to use, these
mixing tanks must be washed and sterilized. Typically, an autoclave
is used for washing and sterilizing small volume tanks, while a
water steam-based operation is employed for washing and sterilizing
larger volume tanks. These wash and sterilize operations, which are
essential to mixing when using such devices, are typically time
consuming, expensive and require highly qualified individuals.
Further, periodic maintenance of these mixing devices must be
performed to ensure proper operation. In certain cases, such
washing/sterilizing operations as well as the maintenance of these
mixing devices may represent more than a third of the total cost of
the mixing devices and maintaining thereof, which may be
prohibitive for given applications. Additionally, mixing of
substances may cause the pressure to increase within these
conventional mixing devices. If this increased pressure is not
accounted for, the mixing of such substances may become dangerous,
wherein the tanks could break apart/explode due to this internal
pressure. Moreover, with the use of many mixing devices currently
employed to mix pharmaceuticals, one cannot be certain whether any
such pharmaceutical has been displaced outside the mixing device
and therefore the amount of pharmaceutical remaining inside the
mixing device, after mixing, may not be sufficiently accurate or
precise. This is problematic when the FDA requires the
administration of such a pharmaceutical in precise, accurate and
known quantities.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] Embodiments of the invention may be best understood by
referring to the following description and accompanying drawings
which illustrate such embodiments. The numbering scheme for the
Figures included herein are such that the leading number for a
given reference number in a Figure is associated with the number of
the Figure. For example, a flexible mixing tank 100 can be located
in FIG. 1. However, reference numbers are the same for those
elements that are the same across different Figures. In the
drawings:
[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates a frontal view of a flexible mixing tank,
according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates a frontal view of a flexible mixing tank,
according to another embodiment of the invention.
[0008] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate systems for mixing substances,
according to embodiments of the invention.
[0009] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate systems for mixing substances,
according to other embodiments of the invention.
[0010] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram for mixing substances,
according to an embodiment of the invention.
SUMMARY
[0011] In one embodiment, a flexible mixing tank is a single-use
apparatus used to mix two or more substances. Accordingly, the
flexible mixing tank is discarded after a single use, thereby
eliminating the washing/sterilizing operations as well as the
maintenance associated with convention mixing devices. Moreover, as
will be described, in one embodiment, a number of inlet and outlet
openings are incorporated into the flexible mixing tank to reduce
the amount of human contact with the substances (which may be
hazardous, dangerous and/or infectious) that are to be mixed as
part of and during the mixing of such substances. In an embodiment,
each substance is introduced by its proper inlet opening to avoid
the contact of one substance with another substance until a mix
operation is to occur.
[0012] In an embodiment, an apparatus includes a conduit. The
apparatus also includes two or more flexible compartments. Each of
the two or more flexible compartments has an interior wall defining
a storage area configured to house a substance. Each of the two or
more flexible compartments includes a distal end and a proximal
end. The proximal ends of the two or more flexible compartments are
coupled to the conduit such that the conduit defines a passageway
between the two or more flexible compartments. A diameter of the
storage area at the proximal end is less than a diameter of the
storage area at the distal end.
[0013] In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first flexible
compartment having an interior wall defining a first storage area
to hold a first substance. The apparatus also includes a second
flexible compartment having an interior wall defining a second
storage area to hold a second substance. The apparatus includes a
third flexible compartment having an interior wall defining a third
storage area to hold a third substance. Additionally, the apparatus
includes a junction element coupled between the first flexible
compartment, the second flexible compartment and the third flexible
compartment. A passage of the junction element to the third
flexible compartment is to be closed for at least a partial time
when the first substance and the second substance are to at least
partially mix through the junction element during rotation of the
apparatus
[0014] The apparatus includes a clamp coupled to a part of the
junction element to a passage of the junction element to the third
flexible compartment for at least a partial time when the first
substance and the second substance are to at least partially mix
through the junction element during rotation of the apparatus.
[0015] In an embodiment, a system includes a single-use flexible
mixing apparatus that includes a conduit, a first flexible
compartment and a second flexible compartment. The first flexible
compartment has an interior wall defining a first storage area to
hold a first substance. Additionally, the first flexible
compartment has a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end
of the first flexible compartment is coupled to the conduit. A
width of the first storage area is smallest at the proximal end.
The second flexible compartment has an interior wall defining a
second storage area to hold a second substance. The second flexible
compartment has a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end
of the second flexible compartment is coupled to the conduit. A
width of the second storage area is smallest at the proximal end.
The system also includes a mixing support to support the single-use
flexible mixing apparatus.
[0016] In one embodiment, a method includes mixing the two or more
substances based on rotation of a single-use flexible mixing
device. The single-use flexible mixing device includes a conduit
and two or more flexible compartments. Each of the two or more
flexible compartments has an interior wall defining a storage area
configured to house a substance. Each of the two or more flexible
compartments includes a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal
ends of the two or more flexible compartments coupled to the
conduit such that the conduit defines a passageway between the two
or more flexible compartments. A diameter of the storage area at
the proximal end is less than a diameter of the storage area at the
distal end.
[0017] In an embodiment, a method includes loading a number of
different substances into a number of separate compartments of a
single-use flexible mixing device through separate inlets for the
number of different substances. The method also includes mixing the
number of different substances through a single connection that
couples the number of separate compartments together based on
rotation on the single-use flexible mixing device.
[0018] In one embodiment, a method includes closing passages
between a first compartment, a second compartment and a third
compartment of a single-use flexible mixing apparatus at a
connection that connects the first compartment, the second
compartment and the third compartment. The method also includes
loading a first substance in the first compartment through a first
inlet in the first compartment. The method includes loading a
second substance in the second compartment through a second inlet
in the second compartment. The method includes loading a third
substance in the third compartment through a third inlet in the
third compartment. Additionally, the method includes opening the
opening for the first compartment and the opening for the second
compartment. The first substance in the first compartment is mixed
with the second substance in the second compartment based on
rotation of the single-use flexible mixing apparatus. The opening
for the third compartment is opened. The method also includes
mixing the third substance in the third compartment with the
mixture of the first substance and the second substances based on
rotation of the single-use flexible mixing apparatus. Further, the
method includes draining a result of the mixing the third substance
in the third compartment with the mixture of the first substance
and the second substances from an outlet opening in the first
compartment. The method includes discarding the single-use flexible
mixing apparatus.
[0019] In an embodiment, a kit includes a flexible mixing device.
The flexible mixing device includes a conduit and two or more
flexible compartments. Each of the two or more flexible
compartments has an interior wall defining a storage area
configured to house a substance. Each of the two or more flexible
compartments comprises a distal end and a proximal end. The
proximal ends of the two or more flexible compartments coupled to
the conduit such that the conduit defines a passageway between the
two or more flexible compartments. A diameter of the storage area
at the proximal end is less than a diameter of the storage area at
the distal end. The kit includes packaging material and
instructions or indicia located on the packaging material or inside
the packaging material.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] A method, apparatus and system for different embodiments for
mixing solids, liquids and/or gases are described. Embodiments of
the invention are described to include a mixing tank that is
flexible. The mixing tank can be manufactured from any suitable
material. In an embodiment, the mixing tank is made of any suitable
material having a property where upon removal of an extending
force, it is capable of substantially recovering its original size
and shape and/or exhibits a significant retractive force. As such,
the mixing tank may be made of any suitable type of stretchable,
collapsible and/or elastic material.
[0021] As used herein, the term "collapsible" refers to a material
that may fold down into a more compact shape.
[0022] As used herein, the term "pliable" refers to that is supple
or adjustable enough to bend freely without breaking.
[0023] As used herein, the term "elastic," or "elastomeric" refers
to that property of a material where upon removal of an extending
force, it is capable of substantially recovering its original size
and shape and/or exhibits a significant retractive force.
[0024] As used herein, the term "stretch," or "stretchable" refers
to a material that is either elastic or extensible. That is, the
material is capable of being extended, deformed, or the like,
without breaking, and may or may not significantly retract after
removal of an extending force. In an embodiment, the stretchable
material can optionally be biaxial stretchable.
[0025] As used herein, the term "biaxial stretch" or "biaxial
stretchable" refers to a material having stretchability in two
directions perpendicular to one another, e.g. stretchability in a
machine direction and in a cross machine direction, or in a
longitudinal direction (front to back) and a lateral direction
(side to side).
[0026] The mixing tank can be manufactured from any suitable
material. Suitable materials include, e.g., films, polymers,
thermoplastic polymers, homopolymers, copolymers, block copolymers,
graft copolymers, random copolymers, alternating copolymers,
terpolymers, metallocene polymers, nonwoven fabric, spunbonded
fibers, meltblown fibers, polycellulose fibers, polyester fibers,
polyurethane fibers, polyolefin fibers, polyamide fibers, cotton
fibers, copolyester fibers, open cell foam, polyurethane, polyvinyl
chloride, polyethylene, metals, alloys, fiberglass, glass, plastic
(e.g., polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride
(PVC), polyethylene terephtalate (PET) and Teflon), rubber, and
combinations or mixtures thereof.
[0027] As used herein, the term "film" refers to a thermoplastic
film made using a film extrusion and/or foaming process, such as a
cast film or blown film extrusion process. For the purposes of the
present invention, the term includes nonporous films as well as
microporous films. Films may be vapor permeable or vapor
impermeable, and function as liquid barriers under normal use
conditions.
[0028] As used herein, the term "thermoplastic" refers to
uncrosslinked polymers of a thermally sensitive material which
flows under the application of heat or pressure.
[0029] As used herein, the term "polymers" include, but are not
limited to, homopolymers, copolymers, such as for example, block,
graft, random and alternating copolymers, terpolymers, etc. and
blends and modifications thereof. Furthermore, unless otherwise
specifically limited, the term "polymer" shall include all possible
geometrical configurations of the material. These configurations
include, but are not limited to isotactic, syndiotactic and atactic
symmetries.
[0030] As used herein, the term "metallocene polymers" refers to
those polymer materials that are produced by the polymerization of
at least ethylene using metallocenes or constrained geometry
catalysts, a class of organometallic complexes, as catalysts.
[0031] As used herein, the term "nonwoven" and "nonwoven web" refer
to fibrous materials and webs of fibrous material which are formed
without the aid of a textile weaving or knitting process.
[0032] As used herein, "spunbonded fibers" refers to small diameter
fibers which are formed by extruding molten thermoplastic material
as filaments from a plurality of fine capillaries of a spinnerette
having a circular or other configuration, with the diameter of the
extruded filaments then being rapidly reduced.
[0033] As used herein, "meltblown fiber" refers to fibers formed by
extruding a molten thermoplastic material through a plurality of
fine, usually circular, die capillaries as molten threads or
filaments into converging high velocity heated gas (e.g., air)
streams which attenuate the filaments of molten thermoplastic
material to reduce their diameter, which may be to microfiber
diameter (the average microfiber diameter is not greater than about
100 microns, for example, having an average diameter of from about
0.5 microns to about 50 microns, more particularly, microfibers may
have an average diameter of from about 4 microns to about 40
microns).
[0034] References in the specification to "one embodiment", "an
embodiment", "an example embodiment", etc., indicate that the
embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure,
or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include
the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover,
such phrases are not necessarily referring to the dame embodiment.
Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is
described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it
is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such
feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other
embodiments whether or not explicitly described.
[0035] Embodiments of the invention include features, methods or
processes embodied within machine-executable instructions provided
by a machine-readable medium. A machine-readable medium includes
any mechanism which provides (i.e., stores and/or transmits)
information in a form accessible by a machine (e.g., a computer, a
network device, a personal digital assistant, manufacturing tool,
any device with a set of one or more processors, etc.). In an
exemplary embodiment, a machine-readable medium includes volatile
and/or non-volatile media (e.g., read only memory (ROM); random
access memory (RAM); magnetic disk storage media; optical storage
media; flash memory devices; etc.), as well as electrical, optical,
acoustical or other form of propagated signals (e.g., carrier
waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.).
[0036] Such instructions are utilized to cause a general or special
purpose processor, programmed with the instructions, to perform
methods or processes of the embodiments of the invention.
Alternatively, the features or operations of embodiments of the
invention are performed by specific hardware components which
contain hard-wired logic for performing the operations, or by any
combination of programmed data processing components and specific
hardware components. Embodiments of the invention include software,
data processing hardware, data processing system-implemented
methods, and various processing operations, further described
herein.
[0037] A number of figures show block diagrams of systems and
apparatus for mixing solids, liquids and/or gases, in accordance
with embodiments of the invention. A number of figures show flow
diagrams illustrating operations for mixing solids, liquids and/or
gases. The operations of the flow diagrams will be described with
references to the systems/apparatus shown in the block diagrams.
However, it should be understood that the operations of the flow
diagrams could be performed by embodiments of systems and apparatus
other than those discussed with reference to the block diagrams,
and embodiments discussed with reference to the systems/apparatus
could perform operations different than those discussed with
reference to the flow diagrams.
[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates a frontal view of a flexible mixing tank,
according to an embodiment of the invention. In particular, FIG. 1
illustrates a frontal view of a flexible mixing tank
(apparatus/device) 100 that includes a film 110 that defines a
first compartment 120A and a second compartment 120B. The first
compartment 120A and the second compartment 120B are separated by a
connection (conduit) 130. As shown, the connection 130 is a
two-part connector for the first compartment 120A and the second
compartment 120B.
[0039] The first compartment 120A has an interior wall 137A that
defines a storage area configured to house a first substance. The
first compartment 120A also includes a distal end 135A and a
proximal end 136A, which are distal and proximal relative to the
connection 130. As shown, beginning at the distal end 135A, the
diameter of the first compartment 120A decreases as the proximal
end 136A is approached. In other words, in an embodiment, a
diameter of the storage area at the proximal end 136A of the first
compartment 120A is less in comparison to a diameter of the storage
area at the distal end 135A of the first compartment 120A.
[0040] The second compartment 120B has an interior wall 137B that
defines a storage area configured to house a second substance. The
second compartment 120B also includes a distal end 135B and a
proximal end 136B, which are distal and proximal relative to the
connection 130. As shown, beginning at the distal end 135B, the
diameter of the second compartment 120B decreases as the proximal
end 136B is approached. In other words, in an embodiment, a
diameter of the storage area at the proximal end 136B of the second
compartment 120B is less in comparison to a diameter of the storage
area at the distal end 135B of the second compartment 120B.
[0041] The flexible mixing tank 100 (including the compartments 120
and the connection 130) is part of a single film. During
use/operation, the first compartment 120A and the second
compartment 120B communicate with each other through the connection
130. The connection 130 defines a passageway between the first
compartment 120A and the second compartment 120B. In particular, a
substance in the first compartment 120A and a substance in the
second compartment 120B communicate with each other (e.g., are
mixed together) through the connection 130.
[0042] As shown, the connection 130 in reference to the first
compartment 120A and the second compartment 120B provide an hour
glass-shaped flexible mixing tank that allows the connection 130 to
throttle the admixing of a first substance in the first compartment
120A with a second substance in the second compartment 120B.
Moreover, this hour glass-shaped flexible mixing tank allows for
the isolation of the two substances prior to or during the admixing
operation by closing the connection 130 through a number of devices
(e.g., a clamp).
[0043] The first compartment 120A includes a number of inlet
openings 150A and an outlet opening 160A. The second compartment
120B includes a number of inlet openings 150B and an outlet opening
160B. A more detailed description of the different components of
the flexible mixing tank 100 will be described below in conjunction
with the description of the different components of a flexible
mixing tank 200 shown in FIG. 2.
[0044] FIG. 2 illustrates a frontal view of a flexible mixing tank,
according to another embodiment of the invention. In particular,
FIG. 2 illustrates a frontal view of a flexible mixing tank
(apparatus/device) 200 that includes a film 210A, a film 210B and a
film 210C. The film 210A defines a first compartment 220A. The film
210B defines a second compartment 220B. The film 210C defines a
third compartment 220C. The first compartment 220A, the second
compartment 220B and the third compartment 220C are separated by a
connection (conduit) 230. In an embodiment, the different
compartments 220A-220C are separately formed from different films
210, wherein the connection 230 is a junction element having a
number of handles 270A-270C for connecting the compartments
220A-220C to the junction element.
[0045] The first compartment 220A has an interior wall 237A that
defines a storage area configured to house a first substance. The
first compartment 220A also includes a distal end 235A and a
proximal end 236A, which are distal and proximal relative to the
connection 230. As shown, beginning at the distal end 235A, the
diameter of the first compartment 220A decreases as the proximal
end 236A is approached. In other words, in an embodiment, a
diameter of the storage area at the proximal end 236A of the first
compartment 220A is less in comparison to a diameter of the storage
area at the distal end 235A of the first compartment 220A.
[0046] The second compartment 220B has an interior wall 237B that
defines a storage area configured to house a second substance. The
second compartment 220B also includes a distal end 235B and a
proximal end 236B, which are distal and proximal relative to the
connection 230. As shown, beginning at the distal end 235B, the
diameter of the second compartment 220B decreases as the proximal
end 236B is approached. In other words, in an embodiment, a
diameter of the storage area at the proximal end 236B of the second
compartment 220B is less in comparison to a diameter of the storage
area at the distal end 235B of the second compartment 220B.
[0047] The third compartment 220C has an interior wall 237C that
defines a storage area configured to house a second substance. The
third compartment 220C also includes a distal end 235C and a
proximal end 236C, which are distal and proximal relative to the
connection 230. As shown, beginning at the distal end 235C, the
diameter of the third compartment 220C decreases as the proximal
end 236C is approached. In other words, in an embodiment, a
diameter of the storage area at the proximal end 236C of the third
compartment 220C is less in comparison to a diameter of the storage
area at the distal end 235C of the third compartment 220C.
[0048] During use/operation, the first compartment 220A, the second
compartment 220B and the third compartment 220C communicate with
each other (e.g., are mixed together) through the connection 230.
The connection 230 defines a passageway between the first
compartment 220A, the second compartment 220B and the third
compartment 220C. In particular, a first substance in the first
compartment 220A, a second substance in the second compartment 220B
and a third substance in the third compartment 220C communicate
with each other through the connection 230. The connection 230 is a
junction element that includes a handle 270A coupled to the first
compartment 220A, a handle 270B coupled to the second compartment
220B and a handle 270C coupled to the third compartment 220C.
Accordingly for the connection 230, the number of handles equals
the number of compartments 220 in the flexible mixing tank 230. The
connection 230 (acting as a junction element) may be coupled to the
different compartments 220 based on a number of different types of
connections. For example, the connection 230 may be coupled to the
different compartments 220 by joining, welding or with an
intermediate element such as a clamping collar, heat shrinkable
sleeve, shrink down plastic tubing or a nesting/screwing
connection. While the connection 130 in the flexible mixing tank
100 of FIG. 1 is not illustrated as a junction element having a
number of handles 270, embodiments of the invention are not so
limited, as the connection 130 (in FIG. 1) could be replaced with a
junction element like the connection 230, wherein the junction
element includes two handles.
[0049] As shown, the connection 230 in reference to the first
compartment 220A, the second compartment 220B and the third
compartment 220C provide a wheel of compartments 220 whose axis is
the connection 230. Because of the small size of the openings from
the compartments 220 into the connection 230, the connection 230 is
able to throttle the admixing of the different substances in the
different compartments 220 together. Further, this small size of
the openings allows for the isolation of substances prior to or
during the admixing operation by closing one or more of the
passages into the connection 230 (using a number of different
devices, such as a clamp). For example, the passage from the first
compartment 220A into the connection 230 may be closed, while the
flexible mixing tank 200 rotates to allow for admixing of the
substance in the second compartment 220B with the substance in the
third compartment 220C. Subsequently, the passage of the first
compartment 220A may be opened to allow for the admixing of the
substance in the first compartment 220A with the result of the
admix operation of the substances in the second compartment 220B
and the third compartment 220C. Accordingly, (as will be described
in more detail below) this opening and closing of the openings into
the connection 230 allows for the mixing of different substances in
a given order at different points in time, thereby enabling a
precise mixing protocol to be followed with regard to the
substances in the compartments 220.
[0050] The first compartment 220A includes a number of inlet
openings 250A and an outlet opening 260A. The second compartment
220B includes a number of inlet openings 250B and an outlet opening
260B. The third compartment 220C includes a number of inlet
openings 250C and an outlet opening 260C.
[0051] A more detailed description of the different components of
the flexible mixing tank 100 of FIG. 1 and the flexible mixing tank
200 of FIG. 2 will now be described. The films 110/210A-210C may be
any type of flexible material for providing a flexible mixing
apparatus (e.g., different types of plastics). For example, the
films 110/210A-210C may be heat-welded plastic films. In an
embodiment, the films 110/210A-210C are plastic films with a
thickness in range of 10 to 400 millimeters (depending on the type
of application). While the films 110/210A-210C may be made from a
number of different plastics, in an embodiment, the films
110/210A-210C are made from a plastic that includes the following
group: polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride
(PVC), polyethylene terephtalate (PET) and Teflon. In an
embodiment, the films 110/210A-210C are a stretchable material,
having a deformation, e.g., of less than approximately five percent
when subjected to a tensile force of 100 gmf per inch (per 2.54 cm)
of width. The films 110/210A-210C define the compartments 120/220
such that the substances therein are isolated from the outside
medium/environment. The films 110/210A-210C also have a mechanical
resistance such that the flexible mixing tank 100/200 may be used
under pressure from the outside medium/environment.
[0052] In an embodiment, the compartments 120/220 are approximately
clear to allow for the viewing of the substances and the mixture
thereof, such that one skilled in the art may determine when the
mix operation is complete based on viewing of the substances. In
one embodiment, the surface of the compartments 120/220 includes
volumetric indicia for measuring the volume of the substances
therein.
[0053] In an embodiment, the flexible mixing tank 100/200 is a
single-use apparatus. In particular, the flexible mixing tank
100/200 is used a single time to mix, at least partially,
substances in the different compartments 120/220. The result of the
mixing of the substances is removed from the flexible mixing tank
100/200 (as described in more detail below). Thereafter, the
flexible mixing tank 100/200 is discarded. Accordingly, there is no
need to wash/sterilize the flexible mixing tank 100/200 in
preparation for subsequent uses. Moreover, because the flexible
mixing tank 100/220 is a single-use apparatus, the flexible mixing
tank 100/200 does not have the ongoing maintenance costs associated
with conventional mixing devices.
[0054] The number of inlet openings 150A-150B, 250A-250C allow for
the introduction of substances ("raw materials" or "reactants") to
be mixed within the flexible mixing tank 100/200. Accordingly, each
substance is introduced by its proper inlet opening to avoid the
contact of one substance with another substance until a mix
operation is to occur. As such, an embodiment includes a kit,
wherein the kit includes the flexible mixing tank 100/200 of the
present invention. The kit also includes substances located in the
different compartments 120/220. In an embodiment, the substances
avoid contact with each other during the manufacturing, shipping,
and storage of such flexible mixing tank 100/200.
[0055] The outlet openings 160A-160B, 260A-260C allow for the
draining of the compartments 120A-120B, 220A-220C. While the
flexible mixing tank 100/200 is illustrated with inlet openings
that are separate from the outlet openings, embodiments of the
invention are not so limited. For example, in an embodiment, a
single opening could be in each of the given compartments for
inputting substances into the compartments, wherein at least one of
such openings is also used to output the result of the admix
operation performed based on rotation of the flexible mixing tank
100/200.
[0056] In one embodiment, the number of inlet openings 150A-150B,
250A-250C and the outlet openings 160A-160B, 260A-260C include a
base plate welded onto the internal or external face of the
compartment 120/220 such that one end of the opening emerges inside
the compartment 120/220 and the other end emerges outside the
compartment 120/220. Furthermore, the number of inlet openings
150A-150B, 250A-250C and the outlet openings 160A-160B, 260A-260C
may be closed using a number of devices, such as a tight plug. In
one embodiment, the diameters of the number of inlet openings
150A-150B, 250A-250C and the outlet openings 160A-160B, 260A-260C
is dependent on the flow rate that the substance is to be
introduced into the compartment 120/220 and/or the admix operation
that is to occur by rotation of the flexible mixing tank 100/200.
For a gas substance, the gas inlet and outlet rate (or pressure)
may be such that there is a sufficient homogenization of the
substances in the flexible mixing tank 100/200.
[0057] In an embodiment, at least one of the number of inlet
openings 150A-150B, 250A-250C and the outlet openings 160A-160B,
260A-260C can be used to introduce different types of probes into
the flexible mixing tank 100/200. For example, pH, pO2, temperature
or pressure probes can be introduced into the flexible mixing tank
100/200 through the number of inlet openings 150A-150B, 250A-250C
and the outlet openings 160A-160B, 260A-260C to check the status of
the substances and/or the result of the mixing of such substances
within the flexible mixing tank 100/200.
[0058] With regard to the substances to be stored in the different
compartments 120/220, such substances that are admixed (mixed), at
least partially together, during rotation of the flexible mixing
tank 100/200 may be in different phases (different types of solids,
liquids and/or gases). For example, the solid substances may be
different types of powders. The liquid substances may be in
different organic phases and/or aqueous phases. The gases may
include oxygen, air, nitrogen, argon, carbon dioxide, etc. In one
embodiment, the substances are substantially homogenized. Moreover,
the different substances may or may not be soluble in reference to
each other.
[0059] Any of a number of combinations of different substances in
different phases can be admixed in accordance with embodiments of
the invention. For example, a first substance in a solid phase may
be mixed with a second substance in a solid phase. A first
substance in a solid phase may be mixed with a second substance in
a liquid phase. In one such embodiment, a powder is suspended in a
liquid substance when the powder may be partially or totally
insoluble in the liquid substance. In an embodiment wherein the
powder is totally soluble, the operation of the flexible mixing
tank 100/200 is such that the result is a homogenized solution of
the powder and the liquid.
[0060] Further, a first substance in a liquid phase may be mixed
with a second substance in a liquid phase. In one embodiment, the
first liquid substance may be partially soluble, totally soluble or
totally insoluble with reference to the second liquid substance. If
at least one liquid substance is at least partially insoluble in at
least another liquid substance, an emulsion is obtained after the
mixing/stirring of the flexible mixing tank 100/200. In an
embodiment, if the liquid substances are soluble in reference to
each other, the operation of the flexible mixing tank 100/200 is
such that the result is a homogenized solution of the two different
liquid substances.
[0061] A first substance in a liquid phase may be mixed with a
second substance in a gas phase. The gas may be inert or may react
with at least one component of the liquid substance. For example, a
gas (that is relatively reactive under the desired conditions) may
be oxygen or carbon dioxide when culturing cells or microorganisms
or to provide for an oxidation reaction.
[0062] The width/diameter of a compartment 120/220 and the
width/diameter of a connection 130/230 are dependent on the size of
the flexible mixing tank 100/200. The width/diameter of the
connection 130/230 is large enough to allow substances to
efficiently enter and exit the compartments 120/220, while small
enough to allow for efficient mixing of the substances in the
different compartments 120/220. Specifically, the width/diameter of
the connection 130/230 will be small enough to ensure that
substances will contact one another when entering/exiting the
compartments 120/220.
[0063] In one embodiment, the ratio of the width/diameter of the
connection 130/230 to the width/diameter of a compartment 120/220
is greater than 0.01. For example, in one embodiment, this ratio is
in a range of about 0.01 to 1.0. In one embodiment, the ratio of
the width/diameter of the connection 130/230 to the width/diameter
of a compartment 120/220 is less than 0.9. In an embodiment, the
width/diameter of the connection 130/230 is considerably smaller
than the width/diameter of a compartment 120/220. For example, the
ratio of the connection 130/230 to a compartment 120/220 is about
0.01 to about 0.7, about 0.05 to about 0.5, about 0.05 to about
0.25 or about 0.1 to about 0.2.
[0064] In one embodiment, the flexible mixing tank 100/200 also
includes one to a number of valves to allow for a release mechanism
in the event that pressure builds up within the flexible mixing
tank 100/200 because of the mixing/rotation operation. The diameter
of the connection 130/230 may be dependent on the types and
characteristics of the substances to be mixed that are within the
different compartments 120/220. Examples of the type of
characteristics that the diameter of the connection 130/230 is
dependent include viscosity, granulometry, density, thixotropy and
rheoscopy. As described above, in one embodiment, a compartment
120/220 may be isolated from the other compartments 120/220 by
closure of the passages through the connection 130/230, using for
example, clips, clamps, flaps, etc. In one embodiment, a mesh or
screen is located at the openings of the compartments 120/220 into
the connection 130/230. Accordingly, when a solid substance is
mixed with a liquid substance, the mesh or screen diminished the
likelihood and/or severity of clogging at the openings into the
connection 130/230.
[0065] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate systems for mixing substances,
according to embodiments of the invention. As shown, a system 300
includes the flexible mixing tank 100 and a mixing support 308. In
the embodiment of the system 300, the mixing support 308 includes
support sleeves 302A-302B. As shown, the support sleeve 302A and
the support sleeve 302B cover the compartment 120A and the
compartment 120B, respectively, and are on opposite sides of the
connection 130. In an embodiment, the support sleeves 302A-302B are
coupled to the compartments 120A-120B, respectively through one of
a number of connection apparatus (e.g., a clip, a hook, etc.).
Accordingly, the support sleeves 302A-302B support the compartments
120A-120B to maintain a sufficient tension for the compartments
120A-120B during loading of the substances into the compartments
120A-120B as well as during mixing of the substances in the
compartments 120A-120B based on rotation of the flexible mixing
tank 100. As shown, in one embodiment, the system 300 includes a
clamp 350 that precludes the mixing of the substances until the
rotation/mix operation is to occur.
[0066] In an embodiment, because of the flexibility of the flexible
mixing tank 100, a low pressure gas is inserted into the flexible
mixing tank 100 to support the compartments 120A-120B when placing
the flexible mixing tank 100 into the mixing support 308 as well as
during rotation of the flexible mixing tank 100. In one embodiment,
the low pressure gas is a range of millibars. This gas may be
inserted into the flexible mixing tank 100 through the number of
inlet openings 150A-150B and the outlet openings 160A-160B.
[0067] A mixing support for the flexible mixing apparatus 100 is
not limited to the mixing support 308 illustrated in FIG. 3A. In an
embodiment, a mixing support includes a different type of support
for assistance during rotation of the flexible mixing apparatus
100. For example, the mixing support may include a clip, a clamp,
etc., that is located at different points on the flexible mixing
apparatus 100. Moreover, embodiments of the invention may include a
combination of such mixing supports. For example, the mixing
support may include the support sleeves 302A-302B and a clip to
assist in the rotation of the flexible mixing tank 100.
[0068] FIG. 3B illustrates a system 310 that includes the flexible
mixing tank 100 and the mixing support 308 (as described above for
the system 300). The system 310 also includes a control apparatus
312 that is coupled to the mixing support 308 through a rotation
handle 304. The rotation handle 304 may be coupled to the support
sleeves 302A-302B and/or to the flexible mixing tank 100. The
control apparatus 312 may include a processor to execute
machine-readable instructions for controlling the rotation of the
flexible mixing tank 100, including the number of turns, the rate
of rotation, how far to turn for a given rotation (1/N of a
360.degree. turn for N number of compartments 120), etc. (as
described in more detail below in conjunction with the description
of the flow diagram 500 of FIG. 5).
[0069] FIG. 3C illustrates a system 395 that includes the flexible
mixing tank 100 and the mixing support 308 (as described above for
the system 300). The system 395 also includes a mixing handle 390
that is coupled to the mixing support 308. The mixing handle 390
may be coupled to the support sleeves 302A-302B and/or to the
flexible mixing tank 100. Accordingly, an apparatus and/or
individual may mix the substances in the flexible mixing tank 100
using the mixing handle 390 (as described in more detail below in
conjunction with the description of the flow diagram 500 of FIG.
5).
[0070] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate systems for mixing substances,
according to other embodiments of the invention. As shown, a system
400 includes the flexible mixing tank 200 and a mixing support 408.
In the embodiment of the system 400, the mixing support 408
includes support sleeves 402A-402C. As shown, the support sleeve
402A, the support sleeve 402B and the support sleeve 402C cover the
compartment 220A, the compartment 220B and the compartment 220C,
respectively, and are on different sides of the connection 230. In
an embodiment, the support sleeves 402A-402C are coupled to the
compartments 220A-220C, respectively through one of a number of
connection apparatus (e.g., a clip, a hook, etc.). Accordingly, the
support sleeves 402A-402C support the compartments 220A-220C to
maintain a sufficient tension for the compartments 220A-220C during
loading of the substances into the compartments 220A-220C and
during mixing of the substances in the compartments 220A-220C based
on rotation of the flexible mixing tank 200. As shown, in one
embodiment, the system 400 includes a number of clamps 450A-450C
that preclude the mixing of the substances until the rotation/mix
operation is to occur. The clamp 450A is coupled to preclude the
substance in the compartment 220A from entering the connection 230.
The clamp 450B is coupled to preclude the substance in the
compartment 220B from entering the connection 230. The clamp 450C
is coupled to preclude the substance in the compartment 220C from
entering the connection 230.
[0071] In an embodiment, because of the flexibility of the flexible
mixing tank 200, a low pressure gas is inserted into the flexible
mixing tank 200 to support the compartments 220A-120C when placing
the flexible mixing tank 200 into the mixing support 408 as well as
during rotation of the flexible mixing tank 200. In one embodiment,
the low pressure gas is in a range of 20-100 millibars. This gas
may be inserted into the flexible mixing tank 200 through the
number of inlet openings 250A-250C and the outlet openings
260A-260C.
[0072] A mixing support for the flexible mixing apparatus 200 is
not limited to the mixing support 408 illustrated in FIG. 4A. In
one embodiment, a mixing support includes a different type of
support for assistance during rotation of the flexible mixing
apparatus 200. For example, the mixing support may include a clip,
a clamp, etc., that is located at different points on the flexible
mixing apparatus 200. Moreover, embodiments of the invention may
include a combination of such mixing supports. For example, the
mixing support may include the support sleeves 402A-402C and a clip
to assist in the rotation of the flexible mixing tank 200.
[0073] FIG. 4B illustrates a system 410 that includes the flexible
mixing tank 200 and the mixing support 408 (as described above for
the system 400). The system 410 also includes a control apparatus
412 that is coupled to the mixing support 408 through a rotation
handle 404. The rotation handle 404 may be coupled to the support
sleeves 402A-402C and/or to the flexible mixing tank 200. The
control apparatus 412 may include a processor to execute
machine-readable instructions for controlling the rotation of the
flexible mixing tank 200, including the number of turns, the rate
of rotation, how far to turn for a given rotation (1/N of a
360.degree. turn for N number of compartments 220), etc. (as
described in more detail below in conjunction with the description
of the flow diagram 500 of FIG. 5).
[0074] FIG. 4C illustrates a system 495 that includes the flexible
mixing tank 200 and the mixing support 408 (as described above for
the system 400). The system 495 also includes a mixing handle 490
that is coupled to the mixing support 408. The mixing handle 490
may be coupled to the support sleeves 402A-402C and/or to the
flexible mixing tank 200. Accordingly, an apparatus and/or
individual may mix the substances in the flexible mixing tank 200
using the mixing handle 490 (as described in more detail below in
conjunction with the description of the flow diagram 500 of FIG.
5).
[0075] FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram for mixing substances,
according to an embodiment of the invention. The flow diagram 500
illustrates the operations of the flexible mixing tank 100/200,
according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0076] In block 502, passages for the compartments 120/220 into the
connection 130/230 of the flexible mixing tank 100/200 are closed.
A number of clamps may be used to close the passages for the
compartments 120/220. As described above, at least one of the
passages for the compartments 120/220 into the connection 130/230
are closed in order to isolate a substance in one of the
compartments 120/220 from the substances in the other compartments
120/220. This closure of the passages allows the mixing of two or
more substances during rotation of the flexible mixing tank
100/200, while isolating one or more other substances.
Subsequently, these closed passages may be opened in an order that
is in accord with a mixing protocol for the substances to be loaded
into the compartments 120/220. For example, a more homogenous
solution may be derived for three substances if a first substance
and a second substance are mixed, followed by the mixing of the
third substance into the mixture of the first substance and the
second substance. Control continues at block 504.
[0077] In block 504, substances are loaded into the compartments
120/220 of the flexible mixing tank 100/200. The substances are
loaded into the compartments 120/220 through the number of inlet
openings 150A-150B, 250A-250C. As described above, the number of
inlet openings 150A-150B, 250A-250C allow for the introduction of
substances ("raw materials" or "reactants") to be mixed within the
flexible mixing tank 100/200. Accordingly, each substance is
introduced by its proper inlet opening to avoid the contact of one
substance with another substance until a mix operation is to occur.
Control continues at block 506.
[0078] The open passage operation is described in block 506, and
the mix operation is described in block 508. While described such
that the operations of the block 508 are subsequent to the
operations of the block 506, embodiments are not so limited. For
example, as described above, different passages may be opened at
different times during the mixing of the substances in order to
follow a mix protocol for a given set of substances. Accordingly,
the opening of a passage may follow a first mix operation, which is
followed by a second mix operation.
[0079] In block 506, the passages (that are closed) are opened in
an order that is based on a mixing protocol for the loaded
substances. In one embodiment, all of the passages are opened. In
an embodiment, less than all of the passages are opened, thereby
leaving one or more substances in isolation during a first mix
operation based on a mix protocol for the given set of substances
(as described above). Control continues at block 508.
[0080] In block 508, the substances loaded into the compartments
120/220 are mixed, at least partially, based on rotation of the
flexible mixing tank 100/200. The mixing of the substances may be
performed by an individual and/or the control apparatus 312/412
(shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4). The mixing of the substances may be
carried out by a number of rotations of the flexible mixing tank
100/200, wherein one rotation includes rotating at least 1/N of a
360.degree. turn (wherein N is the number of compartments). In one
embodiment, the rotation is in a given plane that includes the
compartments 120/220. The rotation is around the center of the
flexible mixing tank 100/200. In embodiment, the center of rotation
is at the gravity center of the flexible mixing tank 100/200. This
gravity center may be the gravity center of the connection 130/230.
In an embodiment, the gravity center corresponds to the symmetrical
center of the flexible mixing tank 100/200.
[0081] In one embodiment, the flexible mixing tank 100/200 is
placed in an approximately vertical position, thereby enabling the
mixing of the substances based on gravity during the rotation of
the flexible mixing tank 100/200. Therefore, at least a part of the
component contained in one of the compartments 120/220 is
transferred by gravity to at least one other compartment upon
rotation of the flexible mixing tank 100/200. In an embodiment to
generate a homogenous solution, the rotation of the flexible mixing
tank 100/200 continues until the substances are approximately
homogenized. In an embodiment that includes a liquid and a powder
that is at least partially insoluble, the rotation of the flexible
mixing tank 100/200 continues until the powder is suspended in the
liquid.
[0082] Moreover, as described above, a number of open passage
operations and mix operations may occur in order to follow a given
mix protocol. Accordingly, a number of mix operations may occur
until the different substances are mixed, at least partially, into
the final resulting substance. Control continues at block 510.
[0083] In block 510, the at least partially mixed substances are
drained from the flexible mixing tank 100/200. In an embodiment,
the flexible mixing tank 100/200 is positioned such that when a
plug is removed from one of one of the number of inlet openings
150A-150B, 250A-250C and the outlet openings 160A-160B, 260A-260C
gravity is used to drain the at least partially mixed substances
from the flexible mixing tank 100/200. Further, the drain operation
may be facilitated. For example, when the substance is a viscous
solution having a slow flow, the drain operation may be facilitated
through a number of operations. In an embodiment, the drain
operation is facilitated by an increase in pressure initiated by
introducing a gas into one of the number of inlet openings
150A-150B, 250A-250C and the outlet openings 160A-160B, 260A-260C.
In one embodiment, the drain operation may be facilitated by a
flattening device (such as a rolling pin).
[0084] In an embodiment, an aspiration cane is used (through one of
the number of inlet openings 150A-150B, 250A-250C and the outlet
openings 160A-160B, 260A-260C) to drain the at least partially
mixed substances from the flexible mixing tank 100/200. In one such
embodiment, the compartment from which the draining occurs is at a
higher height than that of the other compartments. In one
embodiment, a pump coupled to a conduit is coupled to one of the
number of inlet openings 150A-150B, 250A-250C and the outlet
openings 160A-160B to facilitate the drain operation by pumping gas
(such as air) into the flexible mixing tank 100/200. Control
continues at block 512.
[0085] In block 512, the flexible mixing tank 100/200 is discarded.
In particular, the flexible mixing tank 100/200 is discarded after
a single use. Accordingly, the washing/sterilizing operations as
well as the maintenance associated with convention mixing devices
are not needed. Moreover, as described, embodiments of the
invention reduce the amount of human contact with the substances
(which may be hazardous, dangerous and/or infectious) that are to
be mixed as part of and during the mixing of such substances.
[0086] Thus, a method, apparatus and system for different
embodiments for mixing solids, liquids and/or gases have been
described. Although the present invention has been described with
reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it will be evident
that various modifications and changes may be made to these
embodiments without departing from the broader spirit and scope of
the invention. For example, while embodiments illustrated herein
include a two-compartment and three-compartment flexible mixing
tank, a greater number of compartments may be incorporated into a
flexible mixing tank in accordance with embodiments of the
invention. Therefore, the specification and drawings are to be
regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.
* * * * *